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During Thursday’s Europa League match between Derry City and CSKA Sofia at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium in Londonderry, violence broke out leading to a police response inside the stands. Tensions had already escalated before kickoff, with clashes between rival fans occurring in Bishop Street, resulting in an injury to a police officer. The disruption continued into the second half of the game, forcing some spectators, including parents with children, to seek refuge on the pitch as disorder intensified.
The referee halted the match for approximately 14 minutes while police entered the venue at the request of Derry City Football Club, aiming to ensure public safety. PSNI Chief Inspector Graeme Craig commented that police efforts helped “restore calm, meaning that the match could continue to its conclusion.” He also expressed regret over families and children having to flee amid what he described as “unacceptable and reckless behaviour” by a minority of attendees. A strong police presence remained in the area throughout the evening following the disturbances.
Political figures condemned the incident, with SDLP MP Colum Eastwood labeling it “disgraceful” and promising that his party would seek answers about how the situation was managed by law enforcement. Meanwhile, DUP MLA Julie Middleton described the scenes as “utterly unacceptable,” emphasizing that no family should ever be forced to take shelter on a football pitch. Tiernan Lynch, Derry City’s manager, expressed mixed feelings about the event, noting pride in his team’s performance despite the 2-1 defeat and the troubling scenes caused by “bottles being thrown.” His personal concern grew as his son was present in the crowd during the unrest.
Further accounts from those present detailed the growing hostility. Rory Farrell, an SDLP councillor attending the match with his 10-year-old daughter, described the situation worsening when Derry City scored, with CSKA supporters “hurling abuse,” throwing objects, and attempting to breach barriers. Similarly, Derry City fan Malcolm McCausland recounted witnessing an invasion of the home stand and said the security measures in place were inadequate for such events. In response to the disturbances, UEFA announced an investigation into both clubs. Allegations against CSKA Sofia include damage to the stadium, throwing objects, discriminatory behavior, and crowd disturbance. Derry City faces charges related to pitch invasions, inadequate protection of the field, and throwing objects. The club has publicly condemned the violence and is cooperating with UEFA, police, and other stakeholders to determine the full details of the incident
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